Clinical Biochemistry
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- ItemTHE IMMUNE AND METABOLIC IMPACTE OF TESTESTERONE ON MICE MODEL OF LIVER FIBROSIS(2023-06-14) Hadeel Moneer SnoberBackground: Natural killer (NK) cells showed an anti-fibrotic effect; however, their function is thought to be impaired in advanced liver injury. The objective of this study was to evaluate the immune response and metabolic impact of testosterone on mice model of liver injury. Methods: Carbon-tetrachloride (i.p injected) of acute (2 weeks) and chronic (4 weeks) models of male mice of liver injury was performed. Testosterone (4 mg/kg mouse body weight) was injected intraperitoneal injection following the first week of acute model of CCl4 and following the second week of the chronic model of CCl4. At the end of experiments, mice were sacrificed, and serum were collected for assessing liver enzymes of ALT, AST, inflammatory marker of IL-6, metabolic makers of C-peptide levels as well as for lipid and glucose profiles. Livers were harvested and used for histological assessments for inflammation and for fibrosis. Fibrosis profile from liver extracts; SMA and Collagen III, The samples underwent assessment utilizing the real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique. Moreover, liver tissue-resident NK cells were isolated and evaluated for their activity through assessing INF- and IL-6 receptor by the ELISA and flow-cytometry respectively. Results: The serum levels of ALT, AST, and IL-6, as well as metabolic evaluations of cholesterol, triglyceride, C-peptide, fasting blood sugar, and fibrotic profiles, exhibited a linear correlation with the progression of the disease. Histological characterization of the liver was worsened in the chronic model of liver injury. Testosterone-treated mice exhibit a significant reduction in collagen depositions with less dense fibrosis tissue associated with reduced liver injury enzymes and metabolic markers in both the acute and the chronic CCl4 mice model after testosterone treatment (P<0.05). Moreover, testosterone treatments displayed significant decrease in serum IL-6 of 2.4-fold (p=0.0001) and 2.3-fold (p=0.0003) in the acute and chronic models, respectively (p=0.002) and data were associated with increase in INF-release from NK associated with a reduction in their IL-6 receptor expressions (P<0.05). Conclusion: Testosterone has an anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic action by storing histology for lowering SMA and Col III levels as well as decreasing ALT and AST levels. In CCl4-induced mice, testosterone improved the metabolic profile by lowering cholesterol, triglyceride, FBS, and C-peptide levels. Testosterone has an anti-inflammatory impact via decreasing inflammatory cytokine levels (lower IL-6).Testosterone treatment of CCl4-mice restored trNK cell function by increasing NK INF-g and decreasing IL-6 receptor levels. These findings emphasize testosterone's immune-modulatory effects, which are linked to its anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic capabilities. Our results suggest an anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic treatment approach of testosterone for delaying disease progressions. Keywords: Liver fibrosis; Mice Model; Testosterone; Immune And Metabolic Impact.
- ItemPREVALENCE AND MOLECULAR CHARACTERIZATION OF GROUP B STREPTOCOCCUS (GBS) FROM NABLUS AREA(2023-09-19) Alaa Ahmad Lottfy AwwadBackground: Group B streptococci (GBS) are gram-positive bacteria, normally colonize human's genital and gastrointestinal tract asymptomatically, they colonize 18% of women worldwide, they could be transmitted to 50% of newborns from their colonized mothers causing invasive diseases. Objectives: The objectives of this study are to find out GBS prevalence in Nablus, Palestine, the serotypes present, the antibiotics susceptibility and antibiotics resistance genes present on isolated GBS. Methodology: It is a descriptive cross-sectional study, conducted from September 2022 to January 2023 at Rafidia Governmental Surgical Hospital and Al-Itihad Hospital, a convenient sampling technique was used to study 184 pregnant women with gestational age of 33 weeks and above. Descriptive data of participants was collected using questionnaires. A total of 184 vaginal swabs were taken from participants. Swabs were cultured on Uriselect 4 chrom media, bale blue colonies were confirmed by CAMP test and by PCR. Susceptibility pattern was performed. Antibiotic resistance genes and capsular polysaccharide antigens were also tested using PCR. Results: GBS prevalence was 11.4%, a significant association had been found between GBS colonization and residency in city (P-value: 0.014). 100% of GBS isolates were sensitive to penicillin, ampicillin, amoxicillin, vancomycin, ceftriaxone, linezolid, cefepime, and ceftriaxone, 71.4% were resistant to tetracycline, 28.5% resistant to erythromycin, 23.8% resistance to clindamycin and 4.7% resistant to levofloxacin. ermB resistance gene presented in 19% of isolates, mefA presented in 4.7% of isolates and the majority 90% presented with the tetM gene. Serotype III accounted for 42.8% of isolates, serotype V 23.8%, 14.2% were serotype II, 9.5% were serotype Ib, 4.7% were serotype IV whereas 4.7% were non-typeable. Conclusions: This study used combined methodology comparable to the international CLSI guidelines to confirm GBS isolates, serotypes, and the antibiotics profile. GBS isolates accounted for 11.4% of screened pregnant, GBS colonization was significantly associated with living in city (P-value 0.014), 100% of isolates were sensitive to penicillin, and 71.4% were resistant to tetracycline. Most isolates possessed the tetM resistance gene. Serotype III was the predominant (42.8%). Keywords: GBS, Streptococcus agalactiae, serotypes, antibiotics resistance genes
- ItemPANCREATIC IMMUNE CELL ALTERATIONS IN AN ANIMAL MICE MODEL OF LIVER FIBROSIS(2023-10-19) Diana Abu ArraAbstract Background: Liver fibrosis is closely linked to the most common metabolic illnesses and developing acute pancreatitis (AP). Aims: This study aims to investigate the effects of liver fibrosis on modulating changes in pancreatic NK cells and involvement of molecular pathways in a mice model of liver injury. Methodology: Carbon-tetrachloride; CCl4 (i.p injected) of acute (2 weeks) and chronic (4 weeks) models of male C57/BL mice of liver injury was performed. At the end of experiments, mice were anaesthetized, and serum was collected for assessing liver enzymes, pancreatic injury of lipase and amylase. Annexin V examination of the pancreatic tissue for β-islet cell apoptosis, metabolic makers of C-peptide levels as well as for lipid and glucose profiles were performed. The livers were harvested for histological evaluations of inflammatory (H&E staining) and fibrotic (Sirius Red stain) profiles. Moreover, real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used for SMA and collagen III. IL-6 levels from pancreatic β-Islet cells were also evaluated. Pancreatic tissue-resident (tr)NK cells were isolated and evaluated for their activity through assessing INF- γ and IL-6 receptor by the ELISA. Results: In the chronic CCl4 induced-model histological characterization of the liver injury was deteriorated as compared to the acute model and the naïve mice. Serum ALT and AST levels, as well as metabolic evaluations of cholesterol, triglyceride, C-peptide, fasting blood sugar, and fibrotic profiles revealed a positive relationship with illness progression and severity of liver fibrosis. Pancreatic enzymes were elevated in liver fibrosis mice model and were associated with β-islet cells apoptosis. An inverse strength association between IL-6 of β-Islet cells and severities of liver fibrosis was achieved. β-Islet cells which exhibit high secretions to IL6 and caused an up-expressions of trNK IL6R, which in part, affected trNK activity and caused their inability to produce enough quantities of IFN-γ. Conclusion: Liver fibrosis induces pancreatic injury, as evidenced by elevated amylase and lipase levels and increased islet cell apoptosis. Dysregulation of lipid and glucose metabolism might have implications for pancreatic health. Antagonizing IL6 and/or IL6R could improve NK cell activity and delay progression of AP. Keywords: Pancreas; NK cells; liver fibrosis; mice model .
- ItemASSOCIATION BETWEEN VITAMIN D-BINDING PROTEIN AND VITAMIN D3 LEVEL IN HEMODIALYSIS PATIENTS(An-Najah National University, 2024-03-07) Hamadneh, AyatBackground: Vitamin D deficiency is a common problem among patients with end-stage renal failure who undergo dialysis, which requires extensive research and interventions due to its widespread repercussions in the body. Understanding the physiology of vitamin D, as well as identifying factors contributing to its deficiency, has been the focus of research. In addition, vitamin D binding protein (VDBP) and its potential role in influencing vitamin D levels have been explored, with the hope of finding therapeutic interventionsObjectives: For the time being, there is a limited research about the relationship between VDBP and other vital signs, especially among dialysis patients in Palestine. This study aimed to treat this gap by investigating the relationship between VDBP and vitamin D levels in dialysis patients. Methodology: A prospective study, conducted among hemodialysis patients at Al-Najah hospital, Nablus, Palestine, over 10 months. The patients were treated with different doses of Alfacalcidol and Cholecalciferol for a total of 17 weeks. VDBP measured by specific sandwich utilizing enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELIZA) technique by R&D used polyclonal rabbit anti-VDBP antibodies, vitamin D is also measured by ELIZA technique, both of them defined before and after course of tretment. Results: The results indicated that after a course of vitamin D treatment, VDBP levels decreased significantly while vitamin D levels increased significantly, with no correlation between them. These results were consistent with previous research that showed no significant relationship between VDBP and vitamin D levels in different population groups.Demographic variables such as age and gender did not show a conclusive association with VDBP levels among dialysis patients, which is in contrast to results from other studies. In addition, there was no significant relationship between VDBP levels and the results of other laboratory tests such as albumin, calcium, phosphorus, and parathyroid hormone (PTH). Conclusion: Overall, this study underscores the importance of vitamin D treatment in dialysis patients and highlights the need for further research to fully understand the role of VDBP in vitamin D metabolism and its implications for clinical management. Keywords: Vitamin D, Vitamin D binding protein, End stage renal disease, Hemodialysis patients
- ItemTELMISARTAN INHIBITS MELANOMA GROWTH AND METASTASIS THROUGH LRP1 SUPPRESSION(An-Najah National University, 2024-03-11) Saymeh,DanahBackground: Melanoma is the most common type of skin cancer worldwide, which hasa poor prognosis becauseof its high metastatic rate and aggressive nature. Wild-type p53, which has been activated in response to cellular stressors such as oncogene activity, is commonly expressed in melanoma. It has been discovered that TP53 regulates the development of tumors mediated by the multifunctional scavenger protein LRP1 (CD91), which has been connected to the advancement of melanoma.Telmisartan, an antihypertensive medication, possesses anticancer properties that effectively treat melanoma. Moreover, Mir 107 is a crucial tumor suppressor factor that can inhibit the LRP1 oncogene. Aims: Thisstudy aims to determine the effect of angiotensin receptor blocker telmisartan on melanoma growth and metastasis to evaluate it as a potential therapy option for patients with metastatic melanoma who wish to achieve a high survival rate. Methods:An experimental study was carried out at the An-Najah Laboratory for Cancer and Stem Cell Research in Nablus. The B16F10 melanoma cell lineswere seeded in 12 well plates and treated with indicated concentrations of telmisartan to assess cell viability and migration.This study was conducted both in vitro and in vivo using C57BL6 mice to determine telmisartan's impact on tumor growth. To study the effect of LRP1 on melanoma cell proliferation, we utilized lentivirus to overexpress LRP1 and siRNA to knock down LRP1 in B16F10 cells. We also used lentivirus to express tumor suppressor miR107. The expressions of LRP1 (OE) LRP1(KD), and miR107 were verified by qPCR. Results:The study showed that telmisartan inhibits the proliferation and migration of B16F10 cells both in vitro and in vivo.Additionally, the research revealed thattelmisartan restores P53 by phosphorylation, which upregulates the expression of tumor suppressor miR107 and then leadsto downregulating LRP1 expression, inhibiting melanoma growth and metastasis.
- ItemASSOCIATION BETWEEN SERUM FOLATE LEVELS AND DEPRESSION AMONG ADULT FEMALE STUDENTS AT AN-NAJAH NATIONAL UNIVERSITY IN NABLUS, PALESTINE: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY(An-Najah National University, 2024-07-29) Elewi, SajaBackground: Depression is considered a major public health concern worldwide. Depression is a prevalent issue among university students compared to the general population. Folate is a B complex group water-soluble vitamin that naturally occurs in food and is essential to the brain for producing norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin. Previous studies have indicated that levels of folate are crucial in the development and progression of depression. However, the research findings have been inconclusive when it comes to variations in folate levels among people with depression compared to those without the condition. Objective: This study aimed to assess the relationship between serum folate levels and depression among adult female students at An-Najah National University in Nablus, Palestine. Method: This study was conducted with a cross-sectional observational design. A questionnaire was distributed from 15th September 2023 until 20th October 2023 to participating female students from An-Najah National University. Depressive symptoms were assessed using the DASS-21 scale. The questionnaire also collected the social and demographic characteristics of the female students and several questions related to the factors that affect folate levels in the blood. The internal reliability of the DASS-21 questionnaire was tested using Cronbach's alpha. In addition, venous blood samples were collected within the same period in the scientific research laboratory at An-Najah University after overnight fasting, and serum folate levels were measured. The number of female students participating was 180, and their ages varied from 18 to 30 years old. Results: The mean of serum folate levels was 4.82 ng/ml (SD=3.38). The prevalence of depression among them was 16.7%, 47.2%, 14.4% 12.2%, and 9.4% for extremely severe, severe, moderate, mild, and normal depression, respectively. Levels of serum folate were significantly lower in patients with extremely severe and severe depression, the mean was (3.13 and 3.30 ng/ml) respectively. Additionally, there was a significant moderate inverse correlation between the levels of serum folate and depression severity (r=-0.537, P-value<0.001). Conclusion: Our findings showed that there is a connection between the levels of serum folate and depression among female Palestinian students. Folate serum levels may serve as indicators to evaluate the effectiveness of depression treatment. Measuring folate levels can assist physicians in effectively managing depression. In this regard, folate appears to play a more crucial role in the improvement outcomes of mood disorders and should be assessed more attentively. Keywords: Serum folate, depression, lifestyle, diet, clinical characteristics, An-Najah National University, Palestine.
- ItemASSOCIATION BETWEEN CLINICAL AND BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS OF PATIENTS WITH EPILEPSY: A RETROSPECTIVE STUDY IN THE PALESTINIAN HEALTHCARE SYSTEM(An-Najah National University, 2024-10-03) Bsharat, Nour
- ItemTHE CORRELATION BETWEEN INTERLEUKIN-6 AND BONE MINERAL DENSITY AMONG HEMODIALYSIS PATIENTS IN PALESTINE(An-Najah National University, 2024-10-13) Zakarneh, SiwarBackground Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a significant public health challenge worldwide. CKD and End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) have systemic effects on the body, including cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), hematologic problems, metabolic abnormalities, and bone diseases, which are then referred to as chronic kidney disease-mineral and bone disorders (CKD-MBD). Therefore, monitoring bone density in chronic kidney disease patients is very crucial. This study aims to identify the association between IL-6 and clinical parameters with Bone density in chronic kidney disease patients. This study aims to find out the association between IL-6 and the severity of bone mineral disease on (Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) DEXA scan to measure IL-6 as a new marker for bone remodelling and reabsorption in renal osteodystrophy patients as determined by bone mineral density (BMD) at different sites and to help monitor bone remodelling and reabsorption in renal osteodystrophy patients. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among ESRD patients in An-Najah National University Hospital, Nablus, Palestine dialysis unit. A total number of 138 samples were collected from the patients between April 2022 and May 2022. Patient samples were frozen at -80°C. Then, sample was thawed, and the interleukin-6 cytokine was tested using the manual ELISA method (DRG Instruments). The sensitivity of this ELISA kit is 2 pg\dL. A dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan was used to evaluate BMD, and a T-score represents the result. SPSS were used to analyze data. ResultsThe results indicate that most patients included in the study had osteoporosis with a prevalence of 60%, 53%, 47% and 50%, 44.7, and 33.8 for osteopenia at the spine, hip, and neck, respectively. IL-6 is normal within our participants, and there is no relationship between IL-6 and Dexa scan. On the other hand, this study revealed that there is a correlation between IL-6 and albumin (p value< 0.001), ferritin (p-value = 0.011), iron (p-value = 0.008), transferrin saturation (p-value = 0.013), and hemoglobin concentration (p-value = 0.018). Patients who had more CVDs significantly had higher IL-6 than patients who had not. In addition, the IL-6 value for patients with only CVDs is higher than that for those with DM or both CVD and DM and higher than that for those with none of them. ConclusionThe main promising finding is that Palestinian CKD patients have low bone density and elevated levels of IL-6, which were linked with low albumin, iron, transferrin saturation, and hemoglobin but increased ferritin concentration. It also demonstrated that CVDs could be related to high IL-6 concentration in those patients.
- ItemSTATINS INHIBITS GROWTH AND METASTASIS OF MELANOMA THROUGH MIR-126/MMP-9(An-Najah National University, 2024-11-03) Nasser, RashaBackground: Melanoma is the deadliest type of skin cancer, with morbidity and mortality rates increasing globally. Melanoma has an elevated metastatic potential, leading to limited response to the available treatments in addition to poor prognosis. The transcription factor (NF-κB) for nuclear factor kappa B has been up-regulated in melanoma cases. Simvastatin has anticancer properties that can act as a repurposed drug for treating melanoma. Recognizing the signaling pathway and the anti-tumor properties of simvastatin is essential in discovering new kinds of tumors that might be intended by simvastatin. MicroRNA-126 is a significant microRNA family member; recent studies demonstrate its role in cancer as a new tumor suppressor gene because it can stop cancer cells from growing, migrating, and invading by suppressing important oncogenes like matrix metallopeptidase 9 (MMP9). Here, we inspected how simvastatin can affect melanoma growth, tumor cell migration, and angiogenesis. Mechanically, Simvastatin blocks the transcription factor NF-κB, which up-regulates MIR-126 and, therefore, down-regulates the expression of MMP9 as an oncogene of melanoma cancer responsible for cell proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis. Aims: Eliminating melanoma from our lives is our objective. The only way to accomplish this is through study, and it is pretty bold and huge. We propose that, rather than finding a new drug, it would be better to use an existing one to prevent growth and metastasis so that we can investigate the impact of statin drug on melanoma growth and metastasis using an innovative approach. This goal is supported by our unique research technique, which describes how we use the newest ideas to advance the discovery of a new treatment for melanoma. Methods: we use Simvastatin to block the transcription factor NF-κB, which then regulates the expression of MIR-126. Therefore, this micro-RNA inhibits the expression of MMP9 as an oncogene of melanoma cancer, responsible for cell proliferation, migration, angiogenesis, and metastasis. Results: The results of the study demonstrate that simvastatin, via inhibiting the transcription factor NFκB; can influence the growth and spread of melanoma cancer at even low concentrations (5µM). In conclusion: Through downregulation of the transcription factor NFκB, which restores the production of miR-126 that targets the MMP-9 mRNA, simvastatin possesses anti-proliferative characteristics that limit the growth and metastasis of the B16F10 melanoma cell line dependent on dosage and time approach.
- ItemHEMATOLOGICAL AND BIOCHEMICAL PREDICTORS OF COMPLICATIONS AND OUTCOMES AMONG PATIENTS WITH LYMPHOMA TREATED IN THE PALESTINIAN HEALTHCARE SYSTEM(An-Najah National University, 2024-11-24) Sbaihat, BaraaBackground: Lymphomas are heterogeneous malignant neoplasm that form from unprogrammed proliferation of lymphocytes. Tumors arise in B cells, T cells, and N killer cells during their maturation stages. Lymphoma is divided into two main type , Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and about 90 subtypes. There are multiple risk factors for lymphoma, including infection, immunodeficiency, autoimmune diseases, genetics, obesity, drugs, and environmental factors. Lymphoma is diagnosed beginning with a clinical examination, then using a CT scan and a biopsy to confirm the definitive diagnosis. The treatment plan for lymphoma patients is developed based on the stage of the disease and includes chemotherapy and radiation therapy. During the treatment period, the patient's status is monitored through periodic clinical examinations and laboratory tests. In Palestine, treatment is provided to lymphoma patients and their periodic examinations, disease progress, and treatment plan are followed up. Furthermore, the primary objective of this research is to examine the There is a relationship between biochemical and hematological factors and tests with complications ,outcomes and disease progression among lymphoma patients receiving treatment in Palestinian hospitals. Methods: In our study, we collected data for lymphoma patients includes age, date of diagnosis, gender, type of lymphoma, CBC tests, liver function tests, electrolytes, kidney function tests, and treatment receiving treatment in Palestinian hospitals at different ages and geographical regions for both males and females. The data for the patients was divided into two stages: the first stage, which is the stage of diagnosing the disease, and the second stage, which is the last examinations performed on the patients during their treatment path. Then tabulate the data in the Data Collection Form to be analyzed and obtain the research outputs. Results: This study was conducted on 150 lymphoma patients with median age of the patients 40.0 (29.0, 59.3) years and the mean age was 43.9 ± 18.2 years. of those 79 (52.7%) were male in gender ,118 (78.7%) had Hodgkin lymphoma. Time of diagnosis with median 5.0 (4.0, 7.0) years and the median time was 5.5 ± 2.6 years. The cancer stage was only available for a limited number of patients, 26 patients only, 17 (65.4%, 11.3% of all patients) were in stage II. The majority of patients reported general weakness 107 (71.3%),13 (8.7%) had cough, 27 (18.0%) had neck pain, 23 (15.3%) had dizziness, and 15 (10.0%) had fever. the comorbidities Accompaniment cancer were hypertension 14 (9.3%) , 14 (9.3%) diabetes mellitus, and 2 (1.3%) hypothyroidism. As part of the chemotherapy treatment(92.0%) of the patients were receiving cyclophosphamide, 61 (40.7%) received ondansetron and 90 (60.0%) received dexamethasone. In stage 1 Hodgkin lymphoma patients are of a younger age group and have lower survival rates higher white blood cell count, chloride , neutrophil granules, and platelets than non-Hodgkin lymphoma patients .On the other hand, in stage 2, there were no significant changes except for an increase in ferritin level in non-Hodgkin patients more than in Hodgkin patients. conclusion: In this study on a sample of Palestinian lymphoma patients, we found many relationships between lymphoma disease and its progression and risk factors that can increase the rate of lymphoma infection. These variables can contribute to future treatment plans or faster and better detection of cancer to limit its spread and confront it.
- ItemTHE EFFECT OF BILE ACID SIGNALING PATHWAY ON LUNG IMMUNE CELLS IN LIVER FIBROTIC MICE MODEL(An-Najah National University, 2024-12-29) Alfuqaha, Ala`aBackground: Patients with liver diseases are at high risk for the development of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The mechanisms by which the liver participates in the pathogenesis of acute lung injury are not understood. Objectives: Our study aims to assess for mediators that could interfere with liver-lung axis via studying the involvement of bile acids (BAs) signaling in the lung in a mouse model of liver fibrosis. Methods: C57BL/6J mice were induced for liver fibrosis through i.p injection with carbon-tetrachloride (CCl4) for 2 weeks (as an acute model) and 6 weeks (as a chronic model) (n = 12). Serum, BALF, and lung tissue samples were collected on sacrificing day. ELISA was used to detect levels of sRAGE and inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-4, IL-6, TNF-α) in BALF samples, and BAs in both serum and BALF. Real-time PCR was used to quantify markers of lung oxidation (GPx, GSH: GSSG, MDA, SOD), injury (SP-D1), and fibrosis (α-SMA, MMP-9, GFAP). Flow cytometry evaluated isolated resident lung NKs for activation and viability, through the expression of CD107a marker and NTCP. Isolate alveolar epithelial cells (AEC) type I and II were assessed for apoptosis. Results: BAs concentrations were linearly correlated with liver fibrosis severities in serum and BALF. It was found that markers of inflammation, oxidative stress, injury, and fibrosis were significantly increased in both the acute and chronic models of liver fibrosis compared to the control group. Isolated resident lung NK cells exhibited a significant increase in the expression of BA-specific transporter, NTCP, which was associated with a reduction in the expression of CD107a maker; the key indicator of NKs activation and functionality. Moreover, AECs type I and II demonstrated a substantial increase in their apoptosis rate, which was correlated with liver fibrosis severity. Conclusion: BAs, by-products of cholesterol generated in the liver, were found in high concentrations in the lungs of mice with liver fibrosis. These data were associated with an elevation in oxidative stress markers in the lung, and impairment of resident lung NK cells with overexpression of NTCP on their surface. BAs insults on NK cells may partly contribute to the acute lung injury (ALI) pathogenesis and AECs apoptosis. Our data suggest BAs as a valuable approach in treating and diagnosing of liver fibrosis and pulmonary complications. Keywords: Liver fibrosis, resident lung NK cells, BAs, BALF.
- ItemIMPLEMENTING CYSTATIN C AS A BIOMARKER TO IMPROVE DIAGNOSTIC ACCURACY IN CHRONIC KIDNEY DYSFUNCTION IN PALESTINE(An-Najah National University, 2025-02-05) Saleh, MalakBackground: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) continues to be a major threat to public wellness. Since the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is a reliable indicator of kidney function and the traditional direct measurement techniques are expensive and time-consuming, estimation GFR has emerged as the most widely used technique for estimating renal function using endogenous chemicals like creatinine. Nevertheless, the restriction of creatinine requires the use of alternative markers for timely and accurate diagnosis. Objectives: This study aimed to test cystatin C as a substitute biomarker for estimating GFR in CKD patients in Palestine and compare its efficacy to creatinine. Methodology: This cross-sectional study was performed between June and December, 2023 focuses on CKD patients from clinics or admitted to the Ramallah Governmental Hospital and Al-Watani Government Hospital in Nablus, Palestine. A total of 160 patients were included. Demographic, medical data were collected using structured questionnaires and hospital records. Creatinine and cystatin C levels were performed from plasma samples of patients. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS, employing Pearson's chi-square, with a p-value of less than 0.05, which was considered significant. Results: The study's findings suggest that cystatin C may offer a more reliable estimation of GFR compared to creatinine, with a higher stability. The equation that used both serum creatinine and cystatin C was better than the equations that used only one of these markers, as it minimized the independent limitation effect of both markers alone. Conclusion: Implementing cystatin C as a biomarker could enhance diagnostic accuracy for CKD, allowing for timely intervention and management, thereby improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs associated with advanced renal failure. Further research is recommended to solidify these findings and promote the integration of cystatin C into routine clinical practice.
- ItemCD44 EXPRESSION LEVELS AS A BIOMARKER FOR THE EARLY DETECTION OF VARIOUS CANCERS IN BIOLOGICAL SAMPLES: A CASE- CONTROL STUDY(An-Najah National University, 2025-02-06) Bsharat, SamahBACKGROUND: Cancer stem cells (CSCs) contribute to tumor progression, metastasis, and therapy resistance, with CD44 playing a key role in CSC function. As a transmembrane glycoprotein, CD44 interacts with ligands like hyaluronic acid, regulating adhesion, migration, and signaling pathways (Ras-MAPK/ERK). Its alternative splicing and modifications enhance functional diversity, promoting chemoresistance and metastasis. Elevated CD44 expression in aggressive cancers, including breast and colorectal malignancies, highlights its potential as a diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic target. Given its role in tumor progression, this study aims to evaluate soluble CD44 as a biomarker for the early detection and differentiation of breast and colorectal cancer. By analyzing its expression levels in blood and urine across different cancer stages and types, this research seeks to establish CD44’s diagnostic value and potential contribution to precision medicine in oncology. METHODS: This case-control study (2023–2024) examined CD44 expression as a biomarker for breast cancer (BC) and colorectal cancer (CRC) at three hospitals in Nablus, including 40 BC patients, 23 CRC patients, and 70 healthy controls. Blood and urine samples were analyzed for CD44 gene and soluble forms, with exosomal RNA quantified via real-time PCR (normalized to GAPDH) and soluble CD44 levels measured using ELISA. Statistical analyses (two-way ANOVA, t-tests, p ≤ 0.05) confirmed significant differences, ensuring accuracy through standardized protocols. RESULTS: The research indicates a very strong statistically significant elevation in CD44 expression in breast cancer patients when compared to healthy controls (p < 0.0001) in both fold change (gene expression) and soluble CD44 (sCD44) serum and urine concentrations. Similarly, a moderate statistically significant elevation (p < 0.01) in CD44 gene expression form and soluble form for CRC patients compared to healthy controls. Furthermore, there is a strong statistically significant difference in CD44 expression between patients with breast cancer and those with colorectal cancer (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The study identified significantly elevated sCD44 levels in serum and urine of breast and colorectal cancer patients, supporting its potential as a cancer biomarker. In contrast, αFP showed minimal diagnostic value, with negligible serum changes and absence in urine, reinforcing its association with liver-related cancers.
- Item.The RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SYMPTOMS SEVERITY, MENTAL HEALTH, LIFESTYLE FACTORS, AND GUT MICROBIOME AMONG IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME PATIENTS, A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY,WEST BANK,PALESTINE(An-Najah National University, 2025-03-24) Sa'd al deen YasmeenBackground: irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a popular functional disorder, which is characterized by chronic abdominal pain, variation in bowel habits and bloating. IBS is one of the global disorders that constitute a burden on both healthcare organizations and patients' quality of life. Its pathophysiology is complex and involves an interaction of psychosocial and environmental factors. Also, dysbiosis of gut microbiota and gut-brain axis plays an important role in this disorder and affects patients' mental health which can affect symptoms of IBS. So the study objective is to determine the relationship between the symptoms of IBS patients and their mental health, life style, certain types of diet, and gut microbiota diversity and compare it with healthy control. Methods: in this cross-sectional study, we aimed to find the relationship between IBS patients' mental health, physical activity, MEDAS, and gut microbiota composition, and compare it between healthy control and between themselves according to the severity of symptoms. The total number of IBS patients who participated in this study was 237 and 30 healthy control participants. All participants fulfilled the questionnaire to evaluate their mental health, physical activity, adherence to the MEDAS diet, smoking habits, and the severity of symptoms for IBS patients to assess their severity of symptoms using the Birmingham IBS questionnaire. For analysis of gut microbiota, stool samples were collected from all the control and 30 IBS matching patients. DNA extraction was followed by a semi-quantitative PCR to quantify the following bacterial species (Butyricicoccus, Enterobacteriaceae, Fecalibacter, Akkermansia, Bacteroides, Bifidobacterium, Escherichia, Streptococcus, Lactobacillus, and Roseburia) from all stool samples. Statistical analyses were performed to evaluate the relationship between mental health, physical activity, adherence to the MEDAS diet, smoking habits, and severity of IBS symptoms, as well as between the patient and healthy control. Results: Microbiota diversity analysis using alpha and beta diversity, got a good variance between healthy control and IBS patients, which was evaluated using Bray-Curtis dissimilarity with a value of 0.88. Mental health distress, physical activity, sleep problems, duration of, and smoking had a significant relationship between them, while no significant relationship was detected between BMI and MEDAS diet adherence. When using the Shannon index to assess alpha diversity between groups of patients with different severity of symptoms, different microbiota diversity was shown, with a significant relationship between smoking, sleep problems, and mental health distress. While no variation was shown between BMI, physical activity, and MEDAS diet adherence. Conclusion: This study shows differentiation in gut microbiota diversity between IBS patients and healthy controls. As well as, between groups of patients with different severity of symptoms. There is a significant relationship between mental health distress, smoking, and sleep problems for both. Physical activity between IBS patients and healthy control got significant relationship. These findings emphasize the significance of taking into consideration managing IBS patients based on their lifestyle and mental health status, together with traditional medication which can improve gut microbiota diversity.
- ItemEVALUATION OF DENTAL HEALTH INDICATORS IN PREGNANCY : SALIVA PH AND CARIES RISK(An-Najah National University, 2025-06-17) Raddad, RihamPurpose: This study aims to investigate the relationship between pH levels, dental caries, and pregnancy by comparing the dental health of pregnant and non-pregnant women. The focus is on assessing the impact of pH levels, age, and pregnancy experience on dental health perceptions and practices, as well as examining the relationship between the DMFT (Decayed, Missing, Filled Teeth) index and dental health during pregnancy. Design/methodology/approach: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 80 women from the Salfit Health Directorate, divided into pregnant and non-pregnant groups. Data on dental health perceptions, pH impact, and the DMFT index were collected and analysed using statistical methods, including F-tests and T-tests, to compare the groups. Findings: The findings indicate no significant difference in dental health perceptions between pregnant and non-pregnant women based on pH levels (F = 0.542, p = 0.705). Age also had no significant impact on dental health perceptions and practices (F = 1.449, p = 0.226). However, significant differences were found in dental health perceptions related to pregnancy experience (T = 2.476, p = 0.015) and in the DMFT index between women exposed and not exposed to pregnancy indicators, with p-values of 0.011, 0.001, and 0.008, respectively. Research Limitation/implications: The study was limited to a specific population in one region, which may affect the generalizability of the results. Further research is needed to explore additional factors influencing dental health during pregnancy. Practical implications: The results emphasize the importance of integrating tailored dental health education and interventions into prenatal care, focusing on pregnancy-related factors that affect dental health. Originality/value: This study contributes to understanding the relationship between pregnancy, pH levels, and dental health, highlighting the significant role of pregnancy experience and the DMFT index in shaping dental health outcomes. It underscores the need for targeted dental care strategies for pregnant women.
- ItemPHYTOCHEMICAL COMPOSITION AND ANTIDIABETIC, ANTI-OBESITY, ANTIOXIDANT, AND ANTIMICROBIAL ACTIVITIES OF SARCOPOTERIUM SPINOSIUM OIL(An-Najah National University, 2025-09-07) Elsaid, EmanBackground: Obesity, diabetes, oxidative stress, and antimicrobial resistance are concerns negatively impacting individual health and represent an obstacle for the health care system. These problems drive researchers to discover novel solutions to prevent the impact of the issue from spreading worldwide. Medicinal plants are commonly used in traditional medicine to treat and prevent diseases. This study aims to investigate the antilipase, anti-amylase, antioxidant potential activity and antimicrobial activity against human pathogenic bacteria and phytopathogenic fungi of Sarcopoterium spinosum fixed seed oil. Additionally, phytochemical components of Sarcopoterium spinosum fixed oil extracted from seeds were analyzed by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) techniques. Moreover, identified the phytopathogenic fungi by molecular techniques. Methods: Antioxidant activity was measured by using free radical scavenging activity, with DPPH reagent, and Trolox used as a reference. Although antilipase for S. spinosum oil potential was measured by measuring the amount of hydrolysis of p-nitrophenolate to p-nitrophenol were p nitrophenyl butyrate (PNPB) was utilized, and pancreatic lipase activity was estimated using a spectrophotometer at 405 nm. Orlistat medication was used as a reference. Where, antiamylase activity of S. spinosum fixed oil was evaluated by using DNSA reagents, and acarbose was used as a reference. Antimicrobial activity was performed against human pathogenic bacteria and phytopathogenic fungi by using disk diffusion methods for antibacterial and microbroth dilution methods assisted with dissecting microscopes for phytopathogenic fungi. Molecular identification of phytopathogenic fungi was conducted using PCR with ITS primers and sequencing. Results: S. spinosum oil with a composition of nine fatty acids showed significant antioxidant activity with IC50 value equal to 10.581 μg/ml, were strong α-Amylase Inhibitory potential with IC50 value 222.40 μg/ml, but no activity of pancreatic lipase enzyme. In addition, S. spinosum oil revealed no noticeable activity against bacteria, but activity against important Paecilomyces niveus, Penicillium expansum. Alternaria alstroemeria Botrytis californica, and Fusarium equiseti phytopathogenic fungi. Additionally, phytopathogenic fungi were identified by molecular methods. Conclusion: S. spinosum fixed seed oil has remarkable antioxidant properties and eco-friendly fungicide function against phytopathogenic fungi. Molecular techniques are effective in determining the precise organisms responsible for plants diseases.